Life Before Noon: A Millennial’s Manual

While watching the news recently, I saw a report about the funniest, and most creative, way to post your resume – wear it.

DamnINeedAJob.com, a new Web site that’s all about the job hunt, allows people to create a shirt which boasts their skills and abilities, just like a resume. The $25 shirt, written as a type of cover letter, includes text chosen by the buyer and even starts with a hand-picked salutation. And to make sure no potential employer misses the message, the shirt boldly displays the words, “Damn, I Need A Job. Know of Anything?” across its front.

The creator, who seems to prefer being anonymous- I couldn’t find his name anywhere on the Web site- is completely changing the way people look for jobs, while at the same time poking fun at the “your next employer could be anywhere” mentality. He says the shirts attract so much attention that he’s started carrying around resumes to hand people who are interested.

Several new features have been added as the Web site gains popularity, including a blog, discussion forum for the unemployed and DamnINeedMoney.com, a collection of articles and other resources for those finding the job hunt difficult and tedious.

No word on if the idea has actually landed him a job, but I think he should get props for sheer creativity.

-Haley

The time has come to be blunt: commuting sucks. The ridiculous cost of living combined with rising gas prices and increased summer traffic has led many workers to ask: can I afford to commute?

As a recent college grad struggling to get my foot in the door, the issue is one I’m constantly debating in my own head as I search for jobs. I’ve gone on interviews and received a few offers, but all are far away, and I’m forced to ask myself if a job is really worth the time, money and effort it will take to get there. After all, gas is now over $4 a gallon with no signs of stopping. Some offices are even shortening the workweek in order to lighten the load for commuting employees.

There is some relief in public transportation. If a job has easy access to a bus or metro station, I consider that quite a perk. Web sites such as CommuterPage.com help workers calculate how much they can save by using public transportation. I’ve found that taking a bus as little as once a week can truly increase savings and reduce stress.

I don’t think there is a right or wrong answer to the question of commuting. Each person’s drive is different, and many commuters find other job benefits that far outweigh the stress of transportation. Furthermore, there is always the possibility of moving if you plan on staying at one company for an extended period. In the end, I suppose it’s like anything else in life. There will be good days and bad days, easy drives and drives that make you want to punch the guy who just cut you off for the third time. If you arrive home at the end of the day, even when it takes you two hours to get there, and say it’s worth it, then that’s a very special job indeed.

-Haley

I’m finally starting to get ready for my move across the ocean. As I thought about the shoes, coats and other various things to pack, I realized that with all the travel regulations I would have to adjust my mindset of what to bring. Whether you’re moving to another country or going on a quick business trip, it’s important to be prepared.

1. The first step of course is to find a ticket. One site that I use a lot is Kayak.com, another is studentuniverse.com, which offers discounted tickets to those who are still students. Another way to find a good, cheap ticket is to compare the actual airline you’re flying.

2. The step that I find myself in a panic over is packing. Think about carry-ons vs. checking in, which also requires a thought process of two-week stay, six-months move. The Transportation of Security Administration has regulations on what can be included in carry-ons. Prohibited items include bringing sharp objects like pocket knives, scissors, etc. and there are regulations on liquids. Also check with your individual airline for their regulations on baggage size and weight limits.

3. So, you have your ticket and everything is packed, you just have to get to the airport and get on the plane. Take note that if you’re on a domestic flight you should arrive one and a half to two hours before you’re scheduled to take off. If you’re on an international flight you should arrive two and a half to three hours ahead of time. Allowing yourself more time to check-in and go through security checks will help ensure that the whole process goes smoother and quicker.

By being prepared and knowing what to expect in the airport, you will have a more enjoyable trip. Another resource to check out with great information is an article on the latest air travel tips issued.

Happy flying.

-Aida